Delaware is 5th most bicycle-friendly state in the country

Delaware is considered to be the most "bicycle friendly" state east of the Mississippi.

The League of American Bicyclists ranked Delaware fifth nationally and put the state first among all states east of the Mississippi River.

Governor Markell tells WDEL he's not surprised given his trails and pathways initiative.

"We put in what we call our complete streets policy to make sure that those neighborhoods are built to the needs of bicycles and pedestrians was veyr much considered. Secondly, we put some resources into play so we can see more high-quality bike trails, walking trails and the like, and I think those are really valuable to people," says Markell.

Markell says it's Delawareans to have options to ride and walk for two reasons.

"Health, we have a big obesity issue in this country, and the more opportunities we have for people to get outside, the better, and the economic development. Great businesses want great talent and great talent wants fun things to do in their communities," says Markell.